Anyone else here use a speed bag on a regular basis to work on hand/eye coordination?
A few weeks ago I started mixing up my workouts and implemented some boxing (speed bag and heavy bag)? As a result of the speed bag I've noticed that my hand/eye coordination is getting much better.
So what does this have to do with shooting trad gear you ask????
I don't think that it's a coincidence that my ability to pick a spot and hit it with my longbow has increased dramatically since changing my workout. (keep in mind though that I'm just starting over again with trad gear and shoot at very close ranges)
I used to use a speed bag regularly for other pursuits. It is really more a tool for building rhythm and in my opinion only lends itself to sporting martial arts. Adding a boxing disipline to your training is one of the best ways to build strength,conditioning, and confidence which will help your archery. That is what I believe is the true cause of your improvement.
I tend to agree with bigbadjohn.
I notice when I am uninjured :banghead: and training jiu jitsu and mma regular that my form and consistency is spot on.
I think it simply has to do with our ability to use our muscles more proficiently, because we are in good shape and muscles are strong.
I tried, but my arrows kept glancing off and hitting the wall.
Working with the bag not only helps hand and eye coordination, but if you do it longer lengths of time will greatly improve your upper body endurance. I have found the martial arts to help my mental outlook when hunting.
QuoteOriginally posted by Stumpkiller:
I tried, but my arrows kept glancing off and hitting the wall.
LOL... when I shoot in the garage my target sits underneath the speedbag. I've often thought about trying to put an arrow in it....
As far as the comments about exercise and martial arts helping, it makes sense to me. I would love to get back into Sun Tzu for many reasons, but the monthly fees are rediculous IMO.
In a way, I see the tie between martial arts and trad archery, even more so when shooting instictive like I have started doing. The focus and self confidence required are very similar for both IMO.
I was in Tae Kwan Do long enough to achieve yellow belt and have kept up on the stretching and focus exercises the Sensi taught me.
Archery is, after all, a martial art.